Former U.S. President Barack Obama is set to endorse Kamala Harris on Tuesday night, giving her presidential campaign a significant boost in a key speech. This endorsement comes as she runs against Republican candidate Donald Trump. Obama, who is now 63, continues to have a strong influence within the Democratic Party. His involvement follows President Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw from the race and support Harris, who is 59 years old.
A video of Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama, congratulating Harris over the phone has gained massive attention online, further highlighting the significance of his support. Many of Obama’s former top advisers have also joined Harris’ campaign, and Obama continues to offer her guidance, according to sources close to Harris.
Obama’s Influence on the Campaign
Even nearly eight years after leaving the White House, Obama remains one of the most popular figures in the Democratic Party, overshadowing Harris and even the current administration in some public opinion polls. On Tuesday night, during a prime-time address at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Obama will bring his influence to Harris’ campaign, which so far has focused more on generating positive energy rather than specific policy proposals. The convention kicked off on Monday with President Biden receiving a warm reception as he gave a farewell speech, marking the end of his campaign.
Obama’s Legacy and the Challenges Ahead
During his time in office, Obama led a divided nation, but he won the 2008 and 2012 elections by comfortable margins in the Electoral College, carrying states like Florida, Iowa, and Ohio. These states are now more challenging for Harris and her running mate, Tim Walz. Obama’s speech is expected to reflect on his legacy and the challenges faced by Democrats, especially in the wake of Trump’s rise to power through attacks on Obama’s citizenship.
A source familiar with Obama’s speech suggests that he will outline the path he believes will lead Harris to victory, while also cautioning Democrats about the tough road ahead in the final weeks before the election. Eric Schultz, an adviser to Obama, stated that Obama views this moment as critical and is fully committed to helping elect Harris and other Democrats across the country. In the coming weeks, Obama will campaign in key battleground states where his presence could sway voters.
The Tight Presidential Race
Meanwhile, Trump is campaigning in Michigan, a state that has recently been the site of racial tensions. His campaign denies trying to incite further division, despite Trump’s previous racially charged comments about Harris, who would be the first Black woman and South Asian person to be elected president. Republicans argue that Democrats are focusing too much on attacking Trump and celebrating Harris, without offering clear policy plans for the future.
Polls indicate that Harris and Trump are in a tight race, with the outcome likely to be determined by a few key battleground states. Michelle Obama is also expected to address the Democratic National Convention, stressing the importance of moving beyond fear and division. Although her name often comes up as a potential presidential candidate, she has consistently shown no interest in running for office.
A recent poll by Reuters/Ipsos found that Michelle Obama remains more popular than Harris, with 55% of Americans—and 94% of Democrats—viewing her favorably. Harris, who has a 37% approval rating nationally and 81% within her party, will attend a campaign rally in Milwaukee on Tuesday, marking her seventh visit to Wisconsin this year.
